LockwoodSTEMStudent Engineering Hub
ADM Activity 4.3.3

CAM Setup and Machining Strategy

Create the Fusion Manufacture setup, tool list, operation sequence, and approved cutting parameters for the aerospace component.

Back to Unit 4Learning StepsStudent TaskWhat You Submit
Learning targets

Today You Will Learn To

  • Create a Fusion milling setup with approved model, stock, orientation, and work coordinate system.
  • Select classroom tools and create safe, manufacturable Fusion toolpaths in the correct operation order.
  • Document cutting parameters, heights, boundaries, workholding clearance, and estimated machining time.
Manufacturing context

Why This Matters

In the Fusion Manufacture workspace, a setup defines the stock, model orientation, work coordinate system, origin, tools, and operations that will later be posted for Mach3. A correct setup is the bridge between the approved CAD component and the DMC2 Mini.

Learning sequence

Learn Before You Build

Complete these steps in order. Record the requested notes or evidence before moving to the graded activity.

15 min

1. Watch the design-to-CAM transition

Use the Autodesk CAD/CAM Fundamentals video to identify setup, stock, WCS, tool selection, toolpath creation, and verification.

15 min

2. Learn the setup fields

Review the Autodesk setup reference and identify how model, stock, orientation, origin, and work offset must match the physical setup.

15 min

3. Learn tool-library discipline

Review the tool-library resource and compare cutter geometry, flute length, holder, tool number, and cutting-data preset.

20 min

4. Observe a complete teacher CAM setup

Watch the teacher create a setup, drilling/pocket/contour operations, heights, boundaries, workholding model, and operation order.

Detailed activity procedure

Develop the Fusion CAM Setup and Machining Strategy

  1. 1
    Open the approved CAD revision and save a new Fusion version for CAM development.
  2. 2
    Record the assigned production machine. DMC2 Mini work uses the approved Mach3 pathway; FoxAlien work must use the exact model, controller, machine limits, and later post specified by the teacher.
  3. 3
    Switch to Manufacture and create a new Milling setup.
  4. 4
    Select only the approved component as the model. Define stock using the actual classroom stock dimensions and orientation.
  5. 5
    Set the WCS orientation so Fusion X, Y, and Z match the assigned machine axes. Select an origin that can be located physically and inspected before cutting.
  6. 6
    Document the planned work offset and work-zero method. For the DMC2 Mini this is normally the teacher-approved G54 process.
  7. 7
    Select tools only from the classroom library. Verify tool number, cutter type, diameter, flute count, flute length, overall length, holder, and approved cutting-data preset.
  8. 8
    Create an operation plan before generating toolpaths. Typical order may include facing, drilling, pocketing/adaptive clearing, engraving, chamfering, and exterior contouring last.
  9. 9
    Create the first operation and set geometry, heights, passes, linking, spindle speed, cutting feed, plunge feed, stepdown, stepover, stock to leave, and compensation as directed.
  10. 10
    Repeat the process for each required operation. Keep tool changes and operation order intentional.
  11. 11
    Model or mark workholding and confirm that tools and holders cannot contact clamps, screws, vise jaws, tabs, or fixtures.
  12. 12
    Check Clearance, Retract, Feed, Top, and Bottom heights for every operation.
  13. 13
    Generate all toolpaths, resolve warnings, and inspect the path direction and entry motion.
  14. 14
    Record estimated machining time, tool list, operation order, and all approved cutting parameters on the CAM setup sheet.
  15. 15
    Save a new Fusion version and obtain CAM-strategy approval before final simulation and posting.
Required checkpoints

Stop and Verify Before Moving On

Checkpoint A — Setup approved

Model, stock, WCS, origin, machine path, and work offset are correct.

Checkpoint B — Tools and operations approved

Tool definitions, operation order, and cutting parameters match the classroom process.

Checkpoint C — CAM ready for simulation

Heights, boundaries, workholding, warnings, and setup sheet are complete.

Safety and process control

Required Operating Habits

  • Use only teacher-approved files, tools, stock, speeds, feeds, and procedures.
  • Preserve the last verified working file or code version.
  • Stop immediately for unexpected motion, unusual sound, vibration, loose workholding, tool damage, or an unclear condition.
  • Do not operate the CNC mill without the required certification, permission, and supervision.
  • Record failed trials, defects, and interventions honestly.
Quality check

Before You Submit

  • The setup origin matches the planned physical setup.
  • Tools and holders clear the stock and workholding.
  • The exterior contour does not release the part before internal operations are complete.
Student deliverables

What You Submit

  • CAM setup sheet
  • Tool and parameter table
  • Operation sequence
  • Toolpath screenshots
  • Estimated machining-time record
Fusion Manufacture workflow

Required Setup Record

  • Fusion file and version
  • Setup name
  • Milling operation type
  • Model selected
  • Stock dimensions and orientation
  • WCS orientation
  • Program origin
  • Mach3 work offset
  • Tool numbers and descriptions
  • Operation order
  • Speeds and feeds
  • Stepdowns and stepovers
  • Clearance and retract heights
  • Workholding locations
  • Estimated machining time
Outside learning resources

Official References and Videos

Use these resources for learning and verification. Machine operation must still follow the classroom procedure and teacher direction.

CAD/CAM Fundamentals: CAM Setup and First Toolpath

Official Autodesk Fusion video introducing setup creation and the first CAM toolpath.

Open External Resource ↗

Autodesk: Create a Milling Setup

Follow the official steps for selecting the model, stock, orientation, and work coordinate system.

Open External Resource ↗

Autodesk: Milling Setup and WCS Reference

Use this reference when checking setup orientation, origin selection, stock, and work offsets.

Open External Resource ↗

Autodesk Fusion Tool Library

Review tool geometry, holders, tool numbers, and cutting-data presets.

Open External Resource ↗

CNC for Beginners: Tooling and Fusion Tool Libraries

Official Autodesk Fusion video on selecting tooling and creating reliable tool definitions.

Open External Resource ↗
← Previous LessonBack to Unit 4Next Lesson →